Brink of the Lower Falls - 0.7mi Extreme Hike

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Not ideal. Steep, exposed terrain means injury risk is real. Hike with a partner if possible. Carry a whistle and make noise for bears.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are essential for the return climb. Boots with aggressive tread are mandatory. Bring 2L+ water, a hat, and sunscreen.

Q: What if I'm afraid of heights?

Skip this trail. The cliff edges are real and the exposure is significant. There's no barrier and the view is directly down 600 feet.

Q: When is the best time to hike?

Early morning in June–September. Avoid midday heat and crowds. The trail closes in winter due to snow and ice.

Q: Will I encounter bears?

Black bears are present. Make noise constantly, never hike alone if possible, and carry bear spray if you're comfortable using it.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No water sources on trail. Bring 2L minimum and plan accordingly. You'll need more if hiking in heat.

Distance

0.7 mi

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Est. Time

1-2 hours for fit hikers; 2-3 hours for average fitness.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer and Fall (June–September)

Overview

About This Trail

This steep 0.7-mile out-and-back trail drops 600 feet in less than half a mile to the brink of Lower Falls. You'll stand directly above a 308-foot waterfall with 5,000–60,000 gallons per second of water plunging below. Verdict: Extremely difficult. This is a lung-buster descent with a brutal return climb. Only for fit hikers who can handle exposure and intense exertion.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Extreme

Trail Highlights

Stand at the brink of Lower Falls and experience a 308-foot waterfall with 5,000–60,000 gallons per second. Upper Falls visible from a spur at the trailhead.

Insider Tips

• Start with the spur to Upper Falls before descending—bonus view. • The descent is steeper than it looks. Poles are essential, not optional. • Your quads will burn on the return. Serious leg fatigue expected. • Early morning light on the falls beats afternoon shadows.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and Fall (June–September)

Hiking Tips

Bring 2L of water minimum—you'll sweat heavily on the descent.
Wear tight, broken-in boots with aggressive tread.
Use trekking poles on the return climb.
Make noise on the trail in bear country.
Start before 8 AM to beat crowds and afternoon heat.
Don't miss the Upper Falls spur at the beginning.

Family Info

Not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers. Older kids (12+) with strong hiking experience and adult supervision may manage with slow pacing. Cliff edges require constant vigilance.

What Hikers Say

Hikers report the descent is relentless and the return climb is the real challenge. Standing at the 308-foot waterfall's edge justifies the physical cost. This is Yellowstone's most intense short hike for seriously fit hikers.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 600 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours for fit hikers; 2-3 hours for average fitness.

Difficulty: Extreme

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Steep dirt trail with rocky sections. Loose rock in places.

Getting There

Trailhead: Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead, North Rim Drive, Canyon Village Area, Yellowstone National Park

Requirements

Permit Required

Not required.

Fees: Yellowstone entrance fee: $35 per private vehicle for 7 days. No additional fee for this trail.

Shuttle Available

Not required. Access by private vehicle.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No—pets not permitted.

Biking: No—hiking only.

Trail Markers: Trail is obvious and well-worn; hard to get lost despite steepness.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No water sources on trail. Bring 2L minimum.

Shade: Mostly exposed with minimal shade. Full sun on descent.

Hazards:

Extremely steep 600-foot descent over 0.4 miles creates slip risk, especially on loose rock or when wet. Cliff edges with significant drop-offs. Not recommended for people with heart, lung, or other health conditions. Intense sun exposure.

Emergency: Call 911 in emergency. Contact Canyon Visitor Center upon return.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy—one of Yellowstone's most popular trails.

Peak Times: Midday and mid-summer (July–August). Weekends fill quickly.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not accessible. Extremely steep with 600-foot descent over 0.4 miles. Not suitable for visitors with mobility limitations, heart/lung conditions, or fear of heights.

Family Notes:

Not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers. Older kids (12+) with strong hiking experience and adult supervision may manage with slow pacing. Cliff edges require constant vigilance.

Nearby Facilities

Canyon Village Area: lodging, dining, ranger station, visitor center, restrooms, supplies.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this trail?

Only if you're in serious shape. The 600-foot descent is steep and the return climb is brutal. Estimate 1-2 hours if fit, 2-3 if average fitness.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear?

What if I'm afraid of heights?

When is the best time to hike?

Will I encounter bears?

Is there water on the trail?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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